She's a survivor

If you are a female, chances are that you will be victimized at some point in your life. Women are more likely to be sexually assaulted, exploited, and or a victim of domestic violence within their lifetimes than men will, according to the Rape, Abuse, Incest, National Network (RAIN). Earlier this week a young female was viciously choked and raped downtown in broad daylight. Much of the media attention has been focused on the alleged perpetrator. Let's pause for a minute and think about how this child can begin to heal and recover from this heinous and violating act. Research shows us that many sexual assault victims suffer from post traumatic stress disorders long after the event. They are also more likely to begin engaging in self sabotaging behaviors such as promiscuity, cutting herself, or drug and alcohol abuse. Not to mention her worries about possible pregnancy or sexual disease transmission that can occur as a result of rape. We should all hope and pray that she is able to successfully rebound from this violation and move herself from being a victim to being a survivor.